For many, the changing of seasons can bring feelings of unease as routines and temperatures shift. Times of change are when our self-care game must be at its best.
I know what you’re thinking…what self-care plan?
It is common to put ourselves on the back burner while we are sorting out back to school shopping, extra curricular schedules and organizing closets as we bring out warmer clothing and accessories. That doesn’t make it ok though. Having a self-care plan ensures that even amongst the chaos of change, we feel strong and cared for, making even the most anxious of times much more tolerable.
How do I create a self-care plan?
There are 5 major areas of self care to consider. When building your plan, you’ll want to ask yourself the following questions:
Physical Self-Care:
- Are you getting enough sleep?
- Does your daily nutritional intake fuel your body well?
- Are you taking charge of your health?
- Are you getting enough movement?
Social Self-care:
- Are you getting enough face-to-face time with your friends?
- What are you doing to nurture your relationships with friends and family?
Mental Self-care:
- Are you making enough time for activities that mentally stimulate you?
- Are you doing proactive things to help you stay mentally healthy?
Spiritual Self-Care:
- What questions do you ask yourself about your life and experience?
- Are you engaging in spiritual practices that you find fulfilling?
Emotional Self-care:
- Do you have healthy ways to process your emotions?
- Do you incorporate activities into your life that help you feel recharged?
Grab a piece of paper and answer each of these questions. Did you find areas where you are neglecting your self-care needs?
Develop a plan for change
It can be intimidating to start making changes. However, you don’t have to tackle everything all at once. The easiest way to start is to identify several smaller areas where change can be easily adapted.
Then, it is time to schedule those items to focus on your needs. Even when you feel like you don’t have time to squeeze in one more thing, make self-care a priority!
~Anthippi
